I tend to agree that, owing to changes in social attitudes and the advent of e-communications, gay bars are probably less necessary than they once were.

Not necessary, in the sense of being essential, something we couldn't do at all if we didn't have them in many places. But I still think gay bars & clubs can be enjoyable, a nice place to socialize with other gays.

And I don't know how it is in the UK, but try to go into a redneck country-western bar in the US, and hold hands with another man, or kiss him, and see how much you wish we you were in a gay bar instead.

I tend to agree that, owing to changes in social attitudes and the advent of e-communications, gay bars are probably less necessary than they once were.

Not necessary, in the sense of being essential, something we couldn't do at all if we didn't have them in many places. But I still think gay bars & clubs can be enjoyable, a nice place to socialize with other gays.

And I don't know how it is in the UK, but try to go into a redneck country-western bar in the US, and hold hands with another man, or kiss him, and see how much you wish we you were in a gay bar instead.